The saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” is a timeless reminder, especially when it comes to judging parents based solely on their appearance. Richard Huff, 51, is a man covered in more than 240 tattoos, including many on his face. Because of his striking look, many people have unfairly labeled him a bad father.
Richard and his wife, Marita, are raising five children together, and they insist their family is no different from any other. Richard’s tattoo journey began as an addiction; he started with tattoos on his legs and gradually covered 85% of his body. Now, he hopes to be fully tattooed within the next few years. Many of his tattoos are deeply personal, including his children’s names and even his daughter’s lips.
Despite his bold appearance, Richard is a devoted and loving father. He actively participates in his children’s school events and serves in the PTA. His daughter proudly says, “My dad is not scary, he’s good with tattoos.” Marita, his wife, admits she was initially scared by Richard’s looks but soon discovered he has a big heart and a gentle nature. She often praises him as a caring husband and dedicated parent.
Though Richard faces constant criticism online—especially about his facial tattoos—he believes those who judge him have their own issues. Richard and Marita have been together for six years, and their children are happy and well-loved.
Richard emphasizes that his tattoos don’t make him a bad father; instead, they provide his kids with a unique perspective on life and self-expression. Before getting tattooed, he looked very different—a fact that surprises many who meet him today. His story is a powerful reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and you truly can’t judge a book by its cover.